Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

This Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends. Combining the heartiness of a classic cheesesteak with the rich, savory essence of French onion soup, it’s a dish that will impress your family and guests alike. With its comforting warmth and cheesy goodness, this soup is not just tasty but also keto-friendly, low carb, and gluten-free—making it suitable for various diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: The blend of caramelized onions, tender beef, and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Quick preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up this delicious soup in about an hour.
• Versatile dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; this soup fits all occasions seamlessly.
• Low-carb delight: Enjoy a satisfying meal without the extra carbs; it’s ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets.
• Cheesy goodness: The combination of Gruyere and provolone cheeses adds a creamy richness that elevates the soup to new heights.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this scrumptious Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Large skillet
• Rubber spatula
• Oven-proof ramekins

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly; it retains heat well and allows for easy stirring.
• Rubber spatula: Great for deglazing pans and scraping up stuck bits without damaging your cookware.
• Oven-proof ramekins: Perfect for serving individual portions of soup while ensuring the cheese melts beautifully under the broiler.

Ingredients

This Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup combines two of my favorite things — the rich cheesiness of a classic French onion soup and a hearty Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Caramelized onions, thinly sliced ribeye, tender bell peppers, aromatic garlic, simmered in a rich broth, topped with melty gruyere and provolone cheeses. It is even keto, low carb and gluten free.

For the Soup Base

• 4 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 3 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup cooking apple juice
• 4 cups beef stock

For the Toppings

• 1 Keto Everything Bun
• 1/2 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 small yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 10 ounces ribeye steak, thinly sliced
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Gruyere cheese

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions to the pan and sauté until soft, about 12 minutes.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Add the butter to the pan and continue cooking until they start to brown, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Seasoning

Add Worcestershire sauce (or coconut aminos), garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix together and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Deglaze with cooking apple juice. Use a rubber spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 5: Simmer the Broth

Add beef stock to the pan; bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Peppers and Steak

While simmering, heat remaining oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced peppers with some salt and pepper; sauté for 5 minutes. Add steak; cook until desired doneness. Stir in cooked peppers into the soup.

Step 7: Prepare Ramekins

Discard bay leaves from soup. Divide evenly among four oven-proof ramekins. Top each with two pieces of toasted bun and one slice of provolone cheese. Evenly distribute Gruyere cheese on top.

Step 8: Broil

Preheat oven to broil. Place ramekins under broiler until cheese is bubbly and brown.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

Serving your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Individual Ramekins

• Serve the soup in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own portion, topped with melted cheese.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley on top just before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Crusty Bread Slices

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. A toasted baguette or sourdough can complement the richness of the soup perfectly.

Salad Pairing

• Serve with a light green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the hearty nature of the soup.

Cheese Variations

• Provide an assortment of cheeses alongside, such as cheddar or mozzarella, allowing guests to customize their cheesesteak experience.

Spicy Kick

• Include hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the table for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

To elevate your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup, consider these helpful tips that will ensure each bowl is packed with flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and herbs will enhance the overall taste and aroma, making your soup more flavorful.
• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. A longer cooking time allows for deeper flavors and sweetness.
• Choose Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality beef stock as it forms the base of your soup. Better broth means better flavor.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. This ensures that each layer of flavor is balanced.
• Toast Your Cheese Topping: Broil until golden brown to achieve that perfect melty cheese layer that everyone loves.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy your soup immediately after preparation to fully appreciate its rich textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s richness while providing a satisfying crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and a tangy bite that balances out the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring added color and nutrition to your meal, creating a well-rounded dish.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor, perfect for cutting through the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can be an elegant finger food option that pairs wonderfully with creamy soups.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory notes in your cheesesteak soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup, it’s easy to stumble into some common traps. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Onions: Caramelizing can take time; rushing this step will lead to bitter onions. Slowly cook them to achieve that sweet flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning properly can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing can mean losing out on rich flavors stuck in the pot. Always scrape up the browned bits after adding liquid.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A weak broth dilutes the soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality beef stock for a robust taste.
• Not Toasting the Buns: Skipping this step can result in soggy toppings. Toast your buns for a crunchy texture that complements the soup.
• Neglecting Cheese Choices: Using cheese that’s not suitable can affect meltability and flavor. Stick with provolone and Gruyere for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until evenly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup?

Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is a hearty dish that combines classic French onion soup flavors with tender steak and melty cheese, creating a unique comfort food experience.

How do I make this soup keto-friendly?

This recipe is already keto-friendly, using low-carb ingredients like beef stock and keto-friendly buns, making it perfect for those on a low-carb diet.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses or herbs based on your preference, such as mozzarella or even a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

How do I store leftovers of Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What type of meat can I use?

While ribeye is traditional, you can also use sliced chicken or turkey if you prefer lighter options while still enjoying great flavor.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup brings together two beloved dishes into one comforting bowl. Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different meats or toppings to suit your taste!